Key Points:
- Gauteng police arrested 35 people during a major Bruma raid counterfeit goods operation.
- Authorities seized counterfeit items worth more than R20 million in Johannesburg.
- Multiple agencies worked together to disrupt illegal counterfeit trade.
JOHANNESBURG — Gauteng police arrested 35 people and seized over 24,000 counterfeit products valued at more than 20 million rand during a large-scale Bruma raid counterfeit goods operation in Bruma, east of Johannesburg.
Operation Based on Intelligence and Legal Action
After receiving intelligence, police executed search and seizure warrants under South Africa’s Customs and Excise Act and Counterfeit Goods Act. This Bruma raid counterfeit goods operation aimed to disrupt the illegal trade. The trade threatens both consumer safety and the economy.
Multi-Agency Collaboration
The South African Police Service’s National Counterfeit Goods Unit led the operation. They received support from several agencies: the Gauteng Provincial Counterfeit Goods Unit, Crime Intelligence, Public Order Policing, the Hawks (Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation), Department of Home Affairs, SARS Customs, National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications, brand protectors, Crime Prevention Wardens, and private security firms.
Arrests and Seizures
Police arrested one suspect for violating the Counterfeit Goods Act. They also detained 34 foreign nationals for violating the Immigration Act. Authorities seized counterfeit items that included branded clothing, footwear, handbags, perfumes, jewelry, and cellphone accessories.
Police Commitment to Combating Counterfeits
Authorities reaffirmed their commitment to eliminating counterfeit and illicit goods. Their goal is to protect consumers and support legitimate businesses.
“The SAPS remains relentless in dismantling the illegal trade in counterfeit goods to safeguard consumers, support lawful businesses, and preserve South Africa’s economy,” the police said.
Counterfeit goods harm consumers. Additionally, they damage the integrity of legal trade and the economy.
Police urge the public to report suspected counterfeit activities. This will help enforcement efforts.
